As Zimbabwe marked Defence Forces Day, Colonel Miniyothabo “Minnie” Baloyi, wife of Vice President Chiwenga, shared a heartfelt reflection on her remarkable journey as a military officer.

Breaking barriers early in her career, she became the first woman to command a peacekeeping platoon in Angola, a milestone that was even featured in a United Nations magazine. Colonel Baloyi has served the Zimbabwe National Army with distinction, steadily rising through the ranks to her current position.

Beyond her military achievements, she is also a successful entrepreneur, owning and managing Style By Minnie, a high-end boutique chain based in Harare. Her impressive academic credentials include a Doctorate in Business Leadership from Midlands State University, a Master’s degree in International Relations from the University of Zimbabwe, and a Bachelor’s degree in Chinese from the PLA University of Foreign Languages.

Colonel Baloyi’s story is a powerful testament to dedication, leadership, and breaking new ground for African women in the military.

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